Cowboys, NFL world pay tribute to defensive lineman Marshawn Kneeland after death at 24
The Dallas Cowboys announced the death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland on Thursday. He was 24.
Kneeland, who the team selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, was in the midst of his second season with the Cowboys. After appearing in 11 games as a rookie, Kneeland became a more prominent member of the team's defense in his second season, playing in seven of the team's nine games this year. Kneeland recorded his first NFL sack and touchdown in 2025.
Kneeland's cause of death has not been announced at this time.
Following his death, a number of those around the league paid tribute to Kneeland on social media.
In their initial statement, the Cowboys sent thoughts and prayers to Kneeland's girlfriend and family.
"It is with extreme sadness that the Dallas Cowboys share that Marshawn Kneeland tragically passed away this morning. Marshawn was a beloved teammate and member of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers regarding Marshawn are with his girlfriend Catalina and his family."
The NFL offered a similar statement, also noting that "counseling resources" are available for Cowboys staff and players.
"We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Cowboys' Marshawn Kneeland. Our thoughts and prayers are with his girlfriend Catalina, family, friends and his teammates. We have been in contact with the Cowboys and have offered support and counseling resources."
The NFLPA said Kneeland's death is "felt profoundly cross our community."
- NFLPA (@NFLPA) November 6, 2025
Kneeland's agent, Jon Perzley, said it was hard to put the loss into words.
"I am shattered to confirm that my client and dearest friend Marshawn Kneeland passed away last night. I watched him fight his way from a hopeful kid at Western Michigan with a dream to being a respected professional for the Dallas Cowboys. Marshawn poured his heart into every snap, every practice, and every moment on the field. To lose someone with his talent, spirit, and goodness is a pain I can hardly put into words. My heart aches for his family, his teammates, and everyone who loved him, and I hope they feel the support of the entire football community during this unimaginable time. I ask that you please give his loved ones the privacy and compassion they need as they grieve this tremendous loss."
Cowboys former defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, who coached Kneeland in 2024, said the defensive end "wanted to be great."
As coaches, players and fans react to the shocking news this morning of Marshawn Kneeland's death, a note from his former DC Mike Zimmer to me.
- Jane Slater (@SlaterNFL) November 6, 2025
He was a great person, eager to learn .. wanted to be great. He didn't take any crap from anyone on the field. He studied hard-loved... pic.twitter.com/K9CQIMqIv0
Former team defensive end Micah Parsons, who was traded from the Cowboys to the Green Bay Packers in August, paid tribute to Kneeland on Instagram, posting an image of Kneeland featuring the text "I'm sorry little brother I hope you find peace." Linebacker Kenneth Murray and running back Phil Mafah sent out similar posts in honor of Kneeland.
Others around the league, including Cowboys defensive back Juanyeh Thomas, former wideout Dez Bryant and Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero paid tribute to Kneeland following his death.
Sick my stomach, my brotha man....
- Juanyeh Thomas (@STG_Yeh1) November 6, 2025
Damn RIP https://t.co/JS4GnAwtbt
- Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) November 6, 2025
Kelvin Sheppard called Cowboys DL and former WMU star Marshawn Kneeland, who took a pre-draft visit to the Lions 2 years ago, "a special kid." On Kneeland's tragic passing, said "My condolences with his family, loved ones and everybody involved."
- Dave Birkett (@davebirkett) November 6, 2025
#Panthers DC Ejiro Evero sends his condolences to the family of Marshawn Kneeland and the Cowboys after hearing the news of his passing.
- Mike Kaye (@mike_e_kaye) November 6, 2025
Evero spent time with him during the draft process.
Evero brought up Kneeland unprompted with his opening statement.
Our hearts go out to the @dallascowboys, @WMUBroncos and the Kneeland family https://t.co/Vk8jNJL0Wc
- Detroit Lions (@Lions) November 6, 2025
This story will be updated.